Medicare beneficiaries should be aware that open enrollment for Medicare Part D is coming up. Beginning Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, you have the opportunity to examine options available with the private insurance companies that offer prescription drug coverage through Medicare Part D for 2016. If you have a computer, there is a great tool on the Medicare website to help. All you do is click on “Drug Coverage (Part D)”  then click on “Find health & drug plans” and follow the instructions. You need to have all your prescriptions to enter as your drugs do make a difference. You will select a pharmacy and the tool will sort through all the plans in this area. You will be provided a list of the plans appropriate for you beginning with the most cost effective in descending order. Because this insurance is regulated by Medicare, you can shop for price.  
If you would like assistance with the online tool or just want someone to discuss your options with, RSVP can help you. RSVP volunteers have been trained to assist with this process. We will be accepting appointments effective Oc. 1, so mark your calendars. Call us to make an appointment to determine if your plan is still the best, most cost effective plan for you. Even if you are satisfied with your current plan, you owe it to yourself to make sure it is still the best one. It only takes a few minutes. Call Linn at 792-1614 for more information.
On Wednesday, Sept. 30, at noon the Barton County Extension Office will host a Medicare Information Program at the Great Bend Activity Center located at 2715 18th St. This is a great informational meeting for those that are new to Medicare or wanting information on open enrollment for Part D prescription plan. Both the Extension Office and RSVP will be making appointments for consultation after the meeting.
Linn Hogg, Director of Volunteers In Action/RSVP, can be reached at 620-792-1614 or HoggL@bartonccc.edu